TRAIN rides are always popular, especially with children more used to travelling by car, and there are plenty of opportunities to let the train take the strain within easy reach of Hereford.

At Broomy Hill in the city, the Hereford Society of Model Engineers run ‘steaming days’ regularly through the summer to allow visitors to see the steam locomotives and take a short ride.

For a ride on a full-size steam train, head for the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway in Toddington, near Cheltenham. The GWR runs for 10 miles through the Cotswolds, with stunning views offering nostalgia for anyone over 50 and Thomas the Tank Engine for young train fans.

The Severn Valley Railway offers a similar experience over 16 miles between Kidderminster in Worcestershire and Bridgnorth in Shropshire.

At Perrygrove Railway, near Coleford in the Forest of Dean, you’ll find a train ride with a twist and plenty of fun. There’s a treasure hunt and an indoor village with secret passages, and a covered Picnic and Play area at Foxy Hollow. An added bonus is that extra train rides are free.

Call Broomy Hill on 01432 270143; GWSR on 01242 621405 or visit gwsr.com; SVR on 01299 403816 or visit svr.co.uk; Perrygrove on 01594 834991 or visit perrygrove.co.uk